s promise. even more significantly, 2 › wp-content › uploads › 2019 › 10 ›...

60
1

Upload: others

Post on 07-Jun-2020

3 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

TRANSCRIPT

1

2

3

2nd Samuel tells the thrilling and important story of David’s reign as the

king of Israel; a reign marked by incredible success, terrible failure, and

the certainty of God’s promise. Even more significantly, 2nd Samuel

points us beyond David to the true and perfect King that was to come.

#1 – It’s a Long Way to the Top 2 Samuel 1–5:16

#2 – The Dangerously Good God 2 Samuel 5:17–6:23

#3 – A King for All and Forever 2 Samuel 7

#4 – The Dog House to the Palace 2 Samuel 8–10

#5 – A Broken Hallelujah 2 Samuel 11–12

#6 – Asleep at the Wheel 2 Samuel 13–14

#7 – Game of Thrones (Again) 2 Samuel 15–20

#8 – A Great and Powerful God 2 Samuel 21–24

4

Personal Devotions

Use this guide to help you read the Bible every day. You will find a Bible reading guide for each week that will guide you through the book of 2 Samuel and other applicable passages of Scripture. As you read, remember to pray and ask God to speak to you by His Spirit and through His Word.

Growth Group

Take this guide with you to your Growth Group each week. There are Growth Group questions for each sermon in the series, and space to write down prayer points that come from the study that week or prayer requests from the members of your group.

Church

Keep this guide with your Bible and bring it with you to church.

Scribble down sermon notes in the space provided.

5

Your group needs to be a safe place for all people to share and to enter the discussion. This means, all members of the group need to follow a few guidelines:

We lead with grace

We respond to one another in light of what Christ has done for us, understanding that we are all in need of His grace, compassion, and mercy.

We treat each other with respect

We can wrestle with ideas and disagree with one another without judgement, personal attack, or dismissal. We don’t laugh at others when they’ve shared and no putdowns of any kind. These are the actions that make others withdraw and feel uneasy about sharing.

We are here to support one another, not ‘fix’ one another

Jesus does the ‘fixing’. Give encouragement, speak truth, and point to Jesus. Don’t try to solve or fix each other.

We commit to confidentiality

What is said in the group should stay in the group unless permission is given to share it elsewhere. This is not to create a dysfunctional group that keeps unhealthy secrets. Instead, it is to create a culture of safety where everyone feels safe to share thoughts and feelings and knows that others will not find out.

We do not crosstalk

Crosstalk is a conversation during discussion time that leaves others out and can be hurtful. Each person is free to express his or her feelings without

interruptions.

Your group needs to agree with one another that you are committed to providing a safe place to be encouraged and challenged by the word of God and to let Him do a healing, sanctifying work in your lives.

If you have any concerns, you should speak to your group leader or get in contact with our Community Pastor, Ben Fien ([email protected]).

6

Church Center App

On our Church Center App (available for free on the App or Play Stores). You can search and join Growth Groups through the App.

You will find links to a PDF copy of this guide, a link to the interactive You Version Guide, links to sermon audio and video recordings and much more.

Please see The Quarterly for more details on the Church Center App.

Monday BPCC Women Sermon Based 1pm—2.30pm @ BPCC BPCC Young Adults Sermon Based 7pm—9pm @ BPCC

Tuesday Men & Mates Sermon Based 6am—7am @ BPCC

Wednesday BPCC Youth Sermon Based 7pm—9pm @ BPCC Bray Park Growth Group Sermon Based 7pm—9pm @ Bray Park Cashmere Growth Group Sermon Based 7.15pm—9pm @ Cashmere

Thursday North Lakes Group Sermon Based 7pm-9pm @ North Lakes

Register your interest at www.bpcc.com.au/grow

Growth Groups

On the Growth Group Tab, you can search for a group that suits you and ask to join the group straight from the App. The Growth Group leader will be notified and will contact you.

7

You Version Bible App

A digital version of this Group Guide is available in the You Version Bible App (available for free on the App or Play Stores). You can follow along, access the bible readings and take notes. Be sure to save the event each week to keep a copy of your notes.

How to access the BPCC You Version Event on Sunday’s

Step 2 Click on more

Step 3 Click on events

Step 1 Update and open the latest version of the You Version Bible App, for best results turn on location settings for this App.

Step 4 Allow Location settings to show on the map or

search for Bray Park Community Church

Step 5 During our services you will be able to follow along and make notes directly in the App. Be sure to save your

notes.

8

What is it about?

The book of 2 Samuel tells the story of David as Israel’s king. It begins with a period of success and blessing (ch. 2–10) before major sin (ch. 11–12) leads to major consequences (ch. 13–20), and concludes with a series of stories that point to the coming of God’s true King (ch. 21-24).

What kind of book is it?

It is history, but it might be more correctly categorised as theological history – that is, history with a purpose. It is not telling the events solely so that you can know what happened but so that you can understand why they happened. Many of the historical books of the Bible are like this.

How is it structured?

1:1–4:12: David is made king of Judah (the southern kingdom) and rules at Hebron

5:1–9:13: David is made king over all Israel and moves the capital to Jerusalem

10:1-12:31: David’s personal crisis

13:1-19:40: David’s troubles with his family and with his nation

21:1-24:25: An epilogue with some stories that were too good to leave out

What is the key moment?

After establishing his rule over a unified Israel, David desires to build God a house in Jerusalem. Instead, God promises to build David an eternal house through a king from his lineage. This is a key moment in the book of 2 Samuel and in the entire Bible because it points us toward the true king, Jesus Christ, who will come to fulfil the promise given to David and Abraham to bless all nations.

What does it mean for me?

The story of David is the story of someone who was deeply flawed and yet had a close relationship with God. We can learn much of practical importance from his life. And yet, more importantly, the story of David is ultimately a story that points us to Jesus, our true and perfect King. By looking at the life of King David we gain a clearer and more compelling picture of King Jesus.

9

Commentaries

2 Samuel For You by Tim Chester

1 and 2 Samuel by Joyce Baldwin

1 & 2 Samuel: 60 Bite-sized Insights by Phil Moore

2 Samuel: Out of Every Adversity by Dale Ralph Davis

2 Samuel: Your Kingdom Come by John Woodhouse

1, 2 Samuel by Robert D. Bergen

Bible Studies

2 Samuel: A King Unlike the Nations by The Village Church

2 Samuel by St. Luke’s Anglican Church

10

Summary

1 Samuel ends with the defeat of the Israelites and the deaths of Saul and Jonathan, but the news hasn’t yet reached David. In the first few chapters of 2 Samuel we will see the transition from Saul’s reign as king to David’s rule over all Israel—and it will be a long and messy process.

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 1:1-27

Tuesday 2 Samuel 2:1-32

Wednesday 2 Samuel 3:1-21

Thursday 2 Samuel 3:22-39

Friday 2 Samuel 4:1-12

Saturday 2 Samuel 5:1-16

11

Bible Reading

2 Samuel 5:1-16 (NIV)

“1 All the tribes of Israel came to David at Hebron and said, ‘We are your own flesh and blood. 2 In the past, while Saul was king over us, you were the one who led Israel on their military campaigns. And the Lord said to you, “You shall shepherd my people Israel, and you shall become their ruler.”’ 3 When all the elders of Israel had come to King David at Hebron, the king made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord, and they anointed David king over Israel. 4 David was thirty years old when he became king, and he reigned for forty years. 5 In Hebron he reigned over Judah for seven years and six months, and in Jerusalem he reigned over all Israel and Judah for thirty-three years.

6 The king and his men marched to Jerusalem to attack the Jebusites, who lived there. The Jebusites said to David, ‘You will not get in here; even the blind and the lame can ward you off.’ They thought, ‘David cannot get in here.’ 7 Nevertheless, David captured the fortress of Zion – which is the City of David. 8 On that day David had said, ‘Anyone who conquers the Jebusites will have to use the water shaft to reach those “lame and blind” who are David’s enemies.’ That is why they say, ‘The “blind and lame” will not enter the palace.’

9 David then took up residence in the fortress and called it the City of David. He built up the area around it, from the terraces inwards. 10 And he became more and more powerful, because the Lord God Almighty was with him. 11 Now Hiram king of Tyre sent envoys to David, along with cedar logs and carpenters and stonemasons, and they built a palace for David. 12 Then David knew that the Lord had established him as king over Israel and had exalted his kingdom for the sake of his people Israel. 13 After he left Hebron, David took more concubines and wives in Jerusalem, and more sons and daughters were born to him. 14 These are the names of the children born to him there: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, 15 Ibhar, Elishua, Nepheg, Japhia, 16 Elishama, Eliada and Eliphelet.”

12

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

13

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

14

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

Watch the video ‘Overview: 2 Samuel’ from The Bible Project and discuss any questions that arise: https://thebibleproject.com/all-videos/read-scripture-old-testament/

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

READ 2 SAMUEL 1

1. Was the Amalekite punished unfairly? Why or why not? Compare his report of Saul’s death to the one given in 1 Samuel 31:3-6. Why do you think he altered the story?

2. How does David respond to the death of Saul (v.17-27)? Why is this surprising?

3. Think of a time you had the opportunity to respond harshly to someone who mistreated you. What did you do? What should motivate us to respond graciously in these situations?

READ 2 SAMUEL 2:1-11

4. David has been a king-in-waiting since his anointing in 1 Samuel 16. What promising signs do we see from David in these verses? Are there any troubling details?

5. Even though Saul is now dead and God has promised David the kingship, David continues to wait patiently on God’s timing. Have you ever had to wait on God’s timing? Describe your experience and what you learned in the season of waiting.

READ 2 SAMUEL 2:12-32

6. This war was fought between David, who reigned over Judah in the south, and Ish-Bosheth, Saul’s son, who reigned over Israel in the north (2:10). What made this war particularly grievous? Consider the word both Abner (Israel) and Joab (Judah) use to refer to their men in 2:26-27.

For further study: This man offers Saul’s crown for David to take (v.10). Does this scene remind you of any others in the Bible? Are there any moments in the life of Jesus similar to this? Consider Matthew 4:1-11

For further study: Look up the following passages and note why Hebron was a significant city in the Old Testament: Genesis 13:18; 23:19; and 25:9–10. What significance do you see in David moving his entire household from Philistia to Hebron (2:3)?

15

Read Psalm 87 together and allow it to guide your prayers.

David’s rise to the throne in these chapters is marked by hostility and conflict. What hostility or conflict do you face in everyday life? How can you understand the causes of these conflicts, pray for them, and work to resolve them in light of what we’ve learned this week?

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

7. Have you ever had relational difficulties with a brother or sister in Christ? How did you go about resolving the conflict? Why is it so important to live at peace with other Christians?

READ 2 SAMUEL 3:1-21

8. According to verses 1-5, what has David been up to since we last saw him? What is troubling about this situation? Consider Genesis 2:24 and Deuteronomy 17:14-17.

READ 2 SAMUEL 3:22-39

9. According to David, the murder of Abner was unrighteous. For Joab, it was rightful revenge for the murder of his brother. Who do you agree with? Why?

10. What is another, more selfish reason Joab might have had for the murder of Abner? Consider the role that both men played in their respective kingdoms (see 2:8, 13).

11. How can we become aware of and overcome self-seeking motives in our own hearts? Read Philippians 2:3–4 and consider what it says about self-seeking motives.

READ 2 SAMUEL 4:1-12

12. Rechab and Baanah claim to have taken vengeance on Saul for David’s sake, but who does David describe as having taken care of him (4:9)? How can you live with a greater awareness of this perspective in your life?

READ 2 SAMUEL 5:1-16

13. What three reasons are given for why David has earned the right to be king (v.1-2)?

14. What promising signs for David’s reign are in these verses? Are there any troubling signs?

For further discussion: Although Saul had given Michal to David (1 Sam. 18:27), he later gave her to another man after David fled from his court (1 Sam. 25:44). Why do you think David made this specific request? Was his request right or wrong? Why?

Jebusites: a Canaanite people (Gen. 10:15-16) who inhabited Jerusalem (Josh. 15:8; 18:16).

16

Summary

To establish Jerusalem as the political and religious capital of a unified Israel, David brings the ark to Jerusalem from Judah, but not without incident. The ark is transported incorrectly, handled irreverently, which leads to the shocking death of Uzzah. Ultimately, though, the return of the ark leads to great rejoicing and the scandalous dancing of David.

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 5:17-25

Tuesday Numbers 4:5-15

Wednesday 2 Samuel 6:1-11

Thursday 1 Chronicles 15:11-15

Friday 2 Samuel 6:12-22

Saturday Psalm 47

17

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 1:1-27

Bible Reading

2 Samuel 6:1-15 (NIV)

“1 David again brought together all the able young men of Israel – thirty thousand. 2 He and all his men went to Baalah in Judah to bring up from there the ark of God, which is called by the Name, the name of the Lord Almighty, who is enthroned between the cherubim on the ark. 3 They set the ark of God on a new cart and brought it from the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill. Uzzah and Ahio, sons of Abinadab, were guiding the new cart 4 with the ark of God on it, and Ahio was walking in front of it. 5 David and all Israel were celebrating with all their might before the Lord, with castanets, harps, lyres, tambourines, rattles and cymbals.

6 When they came to the threshing-floor of Nakon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the ark of God, because the oxen stumbled. 7 The Lord’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down, and he died there beside the ark of God. 8 Then David was angry because the Lord’s wrath had broken out against Uzzah, and to this day that place is called Perez Uzzah.

9 David was afraid of the Lord that day and said, ‘How can the ark of the Lord ever come to me?’ 10 He was not willing to take the ark of the Lord to be with him in the City of David. Instead, he took it to the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite. 11 The ark of the Lord remained in the house of Obed-Edom the Gittite for three months, and the Lord blessed him and his entire household.

12 Now King David was told, ‘The Lord has blessed the household of Obed-Edom and everything he has, because of the ark of God.’ So David went to bring up the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to the City of David with rejoicing. 13 When those who were carrying the ark of the Lord had taken six steps, he sacrificed a bull and a fattened calf. 14 Wearing a linen ephod, David was dancing before the Lord with all his might, 15 while he and all Israel were bringing up the ark of the Lord with shouts and the sound of trumpets.”

18

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

19

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

20

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

Should church services be reverent and serious or relaxed and joyful? Or both? Why?

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

READ 2 SAMUEL 5:17-25

1. What does David do each time before he engages the Philistines in battle (v.17-22)? What does this indicate about David’s character? How does this differ from the actions and attitude of Saul? Look back to 1 Samuel 13:8–15.

2. How does David’s determination to seek and do the will of God foreshadow the future ministry of Christ? Can you think of an example of when Jesus acted similarly?

3. In the defeat of the Philistines we see a reminder that God’s kingdom and purposes are unstoppable. What hope does this give us, especially in light of Jesus’ ultimate victory at the cross? What difference should this make to the way we understand evil in the world?

READ 2 SAMUEL 6:1-23

4. What does the ark represent for Israel (6:2)? Consider Exodus 25:22 and Numbers 10:35-36.

5. How was the ark being transported on this occasion (v.3)? How was it supposed to be transported? Consider Exodus 25:10-16 and Numbers 4:15.

6. David was following the example of the Philistines (see 1 Samuel 6:1-7) rather than the law of God. What happened last time the ark was treated with irreverence? See 1 Samuel 6:19-20. In light of this, how should we feel about how Israel are treating the ark in verses 1-5?

7. How does this background information help explain the seemingly severe penalty for Uzzah’s actions (v.6-7)?

21

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

8. Read 1 Chronicles 15:11–13 and note what an older and wiser David recognizes as the reason for Uzzah’s death.

9. What causes David to leave the ark with Obed-Edom (v.9-10)? How does David’s experience of fear in this instance differ from the “fear of the Lord” that is called for in other parts of the Bible (e.g., Proverbs 1:7; 1 Samuel 12:24; Joshua 24:14)?

10. What causes David to change his mind and retrieve the ark (v.11-12)? Blessing comes to the house of Obed-Edom, a foreigner and a Gentile. What ancient promises to Abraham are we seeing fulfilled in this event (see Genesis 12:2-3)?

11. Has fear ever held you back from doing something for God? What was the result? What did you learn from the experience?

12. How has David’s treatment of the ark changed (v.13-15)? What does this reveal about his character?

13. How does David celebrate the return of the ark to the city (6:12b–19)? How does his reaction differ from Michal’s? Why might Michal have responded in this way?

14. This story clearly reveals that to treat God with irreverence has terrible consequences (6:1-11), yet to relate to God rightly brings incredible blessing and leads to an experience of wonderful joy (6:12-22). What are some ways we might be tempted to treat God lightly or irreverently? How can we balance fear of God (proper reverence) with joy in God? What are some practical ways you can work at maintaining a balanced view of God by both fearing and enjoying Him?

In ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’, there’s a famous quote about Aslan, the lion-king of Narnia: “He isn’t safe, but he is good.” Is this a correct and helpful way to picture the character of God? How do you feel about coming before God and entering his presence? For further reflection, consider Hebrews 6:19-20.

Imagine someone shares with you that they are afraid of God and their fear holds them back from any kind of meaningful relationship with God. How would you use this story to counsel them?

Read Psalm 88 together and allow it to guide your prayers.

22

Summary

After establishing his rule over a unified Israel, David desires to build a house for God in Jerusalem. Instead, God promises to build David an eternal house through a king from his lineage. This is one of the most important chapters in the book of 2 Samuel and in the entire Bible, because it points us to the true king, Jesus Christ, who would come to fulfil God’s promise given to David and to Abraham to bless all nations.

Bible Readings

Monday Genesis 12:1-3

Tuesday 2 Samuel 7:1-7

Wednesday 1 Chronicles 22:2-10

Thursday 2 Samuel 7:8-17

Friday Luke 1:26-38

Saturday 2 Samuel 7:18-29

23

Bible Reading

2 Samuel 7:1-17 (NIV)

“1 After the king was settled in his palace and the Lord had given him rest from all his enemies around him, 2 he said to Nathan the prophet, ‘Here I am, living in a house of cedar, while the ark of God remains in a tent.’ 3 Nathan replied to the king, ‘Whatever you have in mind, go ahead and do it, for the Lord is with you.’

4 But that night the word of the Lord came to Nathan, saying: 5 ‘Go and tell my servant David, “This is what the Lord says: are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? 6 I have not dwelt in a house from the day I brought the Israelites up out of Egypt to this day. I have been moving from place to place with a tent as my dwelling. 7 Wherever I have moved with all the Israelites, did I ever say to any of their rulers whom I commanded to shepherd my people Israel, ‘Why have you not built me a house of cedar?’”

8 ‘Now then, tell my servant David, “This is what the Lord Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel. 9 I have been with you wherever you have gone, and I have cut off all your enemies from before you. Now I will make your name great, like the names of the greatest men on earth. 10 And I will provide a place for my people Israel and will plant them so that they can have a home of their own and no longer be disturbed. Wicked people shall not oppress them any more, as they did at the beginning 11 and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies.

‘“The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a house for you: 12 when your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, your own flesh and blood, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom for ever. 14 I will be his father, and he shall be my son. When he does wrong, I will punish him with a rod wielded by men, with floggings inflicted by human hands. 15 But my love will never be taken away from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. 16 Your house and your kingdom shall endure for ever before me; your throne shall be established for ever.”’

17 Nathan reported to David all the words of this entire revelation.”

24

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

25

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

26

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

What are some of the most significant promises you’ve made in your life?

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

READ 2 SAMUEL 7:1-3

1. What concern does David express in verse 2? Why might this situation bother him?

2. Though we’re not told David’s plan explicitly, it seems his desire is to build a house for God. Before we look at God’s response, what do you think about this plan? Is David grasping for control or simply expressing reverence for God? What is Nathan’s response to the plan (v.3)?

READ 2 SAMUEL 7:4-17

3. What is God’s initial response to David’s plan (v.4-7)? What does this response reveal about the character of God?

4. It could be that David wanted to build a temple as a way of earning and securing God’s favour. What ‘temples’ are you tempted to build in an attempt to earn and secure God’s love? How has God demonstrated to you that He already loves you?

For further study: The overarching story of the Bible is God’s establishment of His kingdom. Because of this, all of God’s redemptive activity can be seen as a fulfilment of the Davidic covenant as well as the covenant he made with Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3. These covenants centre around this simple promise: God will create a place for His people to live in His presence eternally. How do you see these three themes expressed in the Davidic covenant (7:12–17)? (The Village Church)

27

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

Do the promises of God shape your prayer life? There are innumerable promises from God throughout the New Testament. Which promises could shape the way we pray for ourselves, our families, our church, our community, and our world?

Read Psalm 89:1-4 together and allow it to inspire your prayers.

5. This passage, specifically verses 12-16, is known as the Davidic Covenant. It is one of the most important sections in the storyline of the Bible. It contains a series of unconditional promises from God to David that find their immediate fulfilment in Solomon, David’s soon-to-be-born son, who would build the temple in Jerusalem (see 1 Chronicles 22:7-10), but find their ultimate fulfilment in Jesus Christ, who was born of the tribe of Judah and the house of David (see Matthew 1:1, Luke 1:32-33, etc.).

What promises are made by God in this passage?

I will make your ___________________ great (v.9)

I will provide a ___________________ for my people (v.10)

I will give you ___________________ from all your enemies (v.11)

I will establish your ___________________ forever (v.16)

READ 2 SAMUEL 7:18-29

6. How does David respond to the promises made to him by God?

7. What stands out to you about David’s prayer?

8. Who is the focus of David’s prayer? Why? What can we learn from this for our prayers?

9. David prays back to God the promises he had just received (v.25, 29). Do you ever pray for things that God has already promised in His Word? What specific promises could you pray back to God to cultivate trust and confidence in your heart?

28

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 8:1-14

Tuesday 1 Samuel 10:12-17

Wednesday 2 Samuel 9:1-13

Thursday 1 John 3:1-3

Friday 2 Samuel 10:1-19

Saturday Psalm 2

Summary

Chapter 8 is a catalogue of David’s military victories while chapter 10 narrates the beginning of his war with the Ammonites, which will form the background to the events of chapters 11 and 12. In chapter 9, sandwiched between these two events, is the touching story of David’s kindness to Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, in fulfilment of the promise he made to Jonathan and Saul to not destroy their descendants.

29

Bible Reading

2 Samuel 9:1-13 (NIV)

“1 David asked, ‘Is there anyone still left of the house of Saul to whom I can show kindness for Jonathan’s sake?’ 2 Now there was a servant of Saul’s household named Ziba. They summoned him to appear before David, and the king said to him, ‘Are you Ziba?’ ‘At your service,’ he replied. 3 The king asked, ‘Is there no one still alive from the house of Saul to whom I can show God’s kindness?’ Ziba answered the king, ‘There is still a son of Jonathan; he is lame in both feet.’ 4 ‘Where is he?’ the king asked. Ziba answered, ‘He is at the house of Makir son of Ammiel in Lo Debar.’

5 So King David had him brought from Lo Debar, from the house of Makir son of Ammiel. 6 When Mephibosheth son of Jonathan, the son of Saul, came to David, he bowed down to pay him honour. David said, ‘Mephibosheth!’ ‘At your service,’ he replied. 7 ‘Don’t be afraid,’ David said to him, ‘for I will surely show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan. I will restore to you all the land that belonged to your grandfather Saul, and you will always eat at my table.’ 8 Mephibosheth bowed down and said, ‘What is your servant, that you should notice a dead dog like me?’

9 Then the king summoned Ziba, Saul’s steward, and said to him, ‘I have given your master’s grandson everything that belonged to Saul and his family. 10 You and your sons and your servants are to farm the land for him and bring in the crops, so that your master’s grandson may be provided for. And Mephibosheth, grandson of your master, will always eat at my table.’ (Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.) 11 Then Ziba said to the king, ‘Your servant will do whatever my lord the king commands his servant to do.’ So Mephibosheth ate at David’s table like one of the king’s sons.

12 Mephibosheth had a young son named Mika, and all the members of Ziba’s household were servants of Mephibosheth. 13 And Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, because he always ate at the king’s table; he was lame in both feet.”

30

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

31

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

32

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

1. This section summarises many of David’s victories. While it is not necessarily chronological, it serves as a thematic account of Israel’s victory over enemies during David’s reign. Why do you think the author places this account right after the covenant in chapter 7?

2. Read Psalm 2, which was written by David, and note how this psalm offers further insight into the events of 2 Samuel 8.

3. It is tempting to link David’s success to his obedience, rather than to God’s covenant faithfulness toward Israel. What successes or blessings have you enjoyed that you felt were deserved because of your obedience? How would your relationship with God change if you were to view them as gifts of grace?

READ 2 SAMUEL 9:1-13

4. Look back to 1 Samuel 20:12-17. How does this help you to understand what prompts David’s question in verse 1? What does this reveal about David’s character?

5. How does Mephibosheth respond to David in verse 6? Why do you think David tells him not to fear (v.7)? Put yourself in Mephibosheth’s shoes; you are the grandson of the former king who was the sworn enemy of the new king and before whom you’ve been summoned.

6. Compare the way that Mephibosheth refers to himself (v.8) with the way that David treats him and thinks of him (v.11b). How does a similar reality occur when we come to Jesus? Consider the parable told by Jesus in Luke 14:15-24.

READ 2 SAMUEL 8:1-14

33

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

Is there someone in your life who you could show an extra measure of kindness to? What could you do this week to reach out to them?

Read Psalm 2 together and allow it to inspire your prayers.

7. David keeps his covenant with Jonathan as a result of God showing promise-keeping kindness to him (chapter 7). How has God demonstrated his promise-keeping kindness to you? How does the memory of his kindness affect the way you treat others?

READ 2 SAMUEL 10:1-19

8. The war with the Ammonites is the background of the next three chapters. As far as David’s empire went, it led to the domination of the Syrian kingdoms (8:3-12; 10:15-19). More importantly to the narrative of 2 Samuel, however, it was the setting for David’s great sin (11:1–12:25). What was it exactly that ignited the war (v.3-4)?

9. Are you generally trusting or suspicious of the motives of others, especially when they do something kind for you? What has been the result of such trust or suspicion? What should be our attitude towards the kindness of others?

10. Joab submits to whatever outcome God decides for the battle (v.12). He trusts and he acts. How do you tend to handle situations of uncertainty? What could you do to trust God more immediately and act with wisdom in situations you don’t fully understand?

Ammonites: they were regarded as relatives of Israel; descendants of Benammi, Lot’s younger son (Gen. 19:38), but opposed the Israelites at various times throughout Scripture.

Further context: The actions of Hanun go beyond a schoolboy prank; in that day to shave a man’s beard was an insult of the most serious kind (Is. 7:20) and to cut their garments in that manner was a customary way of degrading prisoners of war (Is. 20:4).

34

Bible Reading 2 Samuel 11:1-27 (NIV)

“1 In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king’s men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem. 2 One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman washing. The woman was very beautiful, 3 and David sent someone to find out about her.

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 11:1-5

Tuesday 2 Samuel 11:6-27

Wednesday 2 Samuel 12:1-14

Thursday 2 Samuel 12:15-25

Friday 2 Samuel 12:26-31

Saturday Psalm 51

Summary

In this sordid episode, David’s sins are many and multifaceted. He covets another man’s wife (11:2-3), commits adultery with her (11:4-5), attempts to cover up the affair through deceit (11:6-13), and eventually masterminds the murder of her husband (11:14-17). At the heart of David’s sin, however, is that he despised the word of the Lord and the Lord himself (12:9-10). David is confronted by God through Nathan the prophet, comes under conviction, admits his guilt, and repents (12:13, 16-17).

35

The man said, ‘She is Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam and the wife of Uriah the Hittite.’ 4 Then David sent messengers to get her. She came to him, and he slept with her. (Now she was purifying herself from her monthly uncleanness.) Then she went back home. 5 The woman conceived and sent word to David, saying, ‘I am pregnant.’

6 So David sent this word to Joab: ‘Send me Uriah the Hittite.’ And Joab sent him to David. 7 When Uriah came to him, David asked him how Joab was, how the soldiers were and how the war was going. 8 Then David said to Uriah, ‘Go down to your house and wash your feet.’ So Uriah left the palace, and a gift from the king was sent after him. 9 But Uriah slept at the entrance to the palace with all his master’s servants and did not go down to his house.

10 David was told, ‘Uriah did not go home.’ So he asked Uriah, ‘Haven’t you just come from a military campaign? Why didn’t you go home?’ 11 Uriah said to David, ‘The ark and Israel and Judah are staying in tents, and my commander Joab and my lord’s men are camped in the open country. How could I go to my house to eat and drink and make love to my wife? As surely as you live, I will not do such a thing!’ 12 Then David said to him, ‘Stay here one more day, and tomorrow I will send you back.’ So Uriah remained in Jerusalem that day and the next. 13 At David’s invitation, he ate and drank with him, and David made him drunk. But in the evening Uriah went out to sleep on his mat among his master’s servants; he did not go home.

14 In the morning David wrote a letter to Joab and sent it with Uriah. 15 In it he wrote, ‘Put Uriah out in front where the fighting is fiercest. Then withdraw from him so that he will be struck down and die.’ 16 So while Joab had the city under siege, he put Uriah at a place where he knew the strongest defenders were. 17 When the men of the city came out and fought against Joab, some of the men in David’s army fell; moreover, Uriah the Hittite died.

18 Joab sent David a full account of the battle. 19 He instructed the messenger: ‘When you have finished giving the king this account of the battle, 20 the king’s anger may flare up, and he may ask you, “Why did you get so close to the city to fight? Didn’t you know they would shoot arrows from the wall? 21 Who killed Abimelek son of Jerub-Besheth? Didn’t a woman drop an upper millstone on him from the wall, so that he died in Thebez? Why did you get so close to the wall?” If he asks you this, then say to him, “Moreover, your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead.”’

22 The messenger set out, and when he arrived he told David everything Joab had sent him to say. 23 The messenger said to David, ‘The men overpowered us and came out against us in the open, but we drove them back to the entrance of the city gate. 24 Then the archers shot arrows at your servants from the wall, and some of the king’s men died. Moreover, your servant Uriah the Hittite is dead.’

25 David told the messenger, ‘Say this to Joab: “Don’t let this upset you; the sword devours one as well as another. Press the attack against the city and destroy it.” Say this to encourage Joab.’

26 When Uriah’s wife heard that her husband was dead, she mourned for him. 27 After the time of mourning was over, David had her brought to his house, and she became his wife and bore him a son. But the thing David had done displeased the Lord.”

36

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

37

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

38

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

READ 2 SAMUEL 11:1-5

1. What ominous note is sounded in verse 1? What could this detail indicate about the state of David’s heart and mind? How does this prepare us for what is to come?

2. Compare David’s actions in verses 2-4 with the actions of Eve in the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:6. What similarities do you notice? What lessons can we learn from this about the nature of temptation and sin? Consider James 1:13-15

3. What does it mean that Bathsheba had “purified herself from her uncleanness” (v.5)? What point is being made? Consider Leviticus 15:19-30 and what happens next in verse 5.

READ 2 SAMUEL 11:6-27

4. What plans does David devise to cover up his sin (see verses 6-9, 12-13, and 14-15)? What does he hope to achieve each time?

5. Earlier in his life we saw David regularly listening to God. He often “inquired of the Lord” (see 1 Samuel 23:2, 4; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1). But the last time David does this is in 2 Samuel 5:19 and 23. When we close our ears to God (through his word and prayer) we often harden our hearts to him as well. Have you experienced this in your own life? How is this reality highlighted by David’s response (or non-response) to the honourable actions of Uriah in verses 10-11?

6. After Joab fulfils David’s orders, he sends a messenger to the king to report on what has happened (v.18). What response does Joab expect from David (v.19-21)? How does David respond (v.25)? Why might David have responded in this way?

7. Chapter 11 provides a vivid example of how sin begets more sin. Identify the escalation of David’s sin in this chapter. Have you experienced this reality in your own life?

Further context: In 1 Samuel 8 Samuel responds to Israel’s request for a king by warning them that their king will end up taking from them. How is David acting in this manner and in fulfilment of Samuel’s

39

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

God forces David to confront and confess his sins by sending Nathan to him. But better than having a “Nathan” show up unannounced would be to invite someone to hold you accountable (e.g., James 5:16). What are the benefits of having someone else to whom you can confess sin? Do you have friendships and relationships where you will be challenged and held accountable for your life and actions? How can you put yourself in a position to help others who may be struggling?

Read Psalm 51 together and allow it to inspire your prayers.

8. What does God think about all that has transpired from the beginning of this

chapter (11:27)?

9. David operates as though God will not see his sin, but the last verse of the chapter reminds us that he does. How and when are you prone to forget the ever-seeing eyes of God?

READ 2 SAMUEL 12:1-14

10. What is your response to Nathan’s parable? What do you think of David’s response (v.5-6)? Does it seem excessive? What is going on in David’s heart?

11. Sometimes, in order to appease our guilty consciences, we become harsh and judgemental of others. Do you ever see this in your own life? How can we overcome this tendency?

12. Despite God’s abundant generosity to him (v.7-8), it wasn’t enough for David. What led him to this point (v.9-10)? What two things did David “despise”? What does this mean?

13. What do you think of David’s response to Nathan’s prophetic words (v.13)? See Psalm 51 for an expanded version of David’s repentance.

14. David’s repentance is met with God’s forgiveness (v.13); he is freed from his guilt and the eternal consequences of his sin. Yet there are still immediate consequences to his sin. Why is it important to recognise that we can be forgiven of our sin but may still face present consequences for our sin?

15. The consequence of David’s sin is that his son will die (v.14). What is your reaction this consequence? Though this is undoubtedly a horrible outcome, we are assured of the child’s eternal security (v.22-23) and through it we are reminded of the significance of the cross. David sinned and deserved to die, but someone else died in his place. Not only that, but it was David’s son who died. And one day the ultimate Son born to David’s line, Jesus, would die for the sins of the world. Give thanks to God for sending Jesus to die for our sin so we can stand before Him forgiven and assured of our eternal future.

40

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 13:1-22

Tuesday 2 Samuel 13:23-39

Wednesday Psalm 32

Thursday 2 Samuel 14:1-24

Friday 2 Samuel 14:25-33

Saturday Psalm 2

Summary

In these chapters the tragic consequences of David’s moral failure with Bathsheba continue to be felt. David’s firstborn, Amnon, follows in his father’s footsteps by forcefully sleeping with his half-sister Tamar. Tamar’s brother Absalom ends up taking revenge and kills Amnon before fleeing. During these episodes one cannot help but notice that David is passively dealing with these issues. His strength has been sapped since his moral failure with Bathsheba, and his inaction only worsens the situation.

41

Bible Reading

2 Samuel 13:23-39 (NIV)

“23 Two years later, when Absalom’s sheepshearers were at Baal Hazor near the border of Ephraim, he invited all the king’s sons to come there. 24 Absalom went to the king and said, “Your servant has had shearers come. Will the king and his attendants please join me?” 25 “No, my son,” the king replied. “All of us should not go; we would only be a burden to you.” Although Absalom urged him, he still refused to go but gave him his blessing. 26 Then Absalom said, “If not, please let my brother Amnon come with us.” The king asked him, “Why should he go with you?” 27 But Absalom urged him, so he sent with him Amnon and the rest of the king’s sons.

28 Absalom ordered his men, “Listen! When Amnon is in high spirits from drinking wine and I say to you, ‘Strike Amnon down,’ then kill him. Don’t be afraid. Haven’t I given you this order? Be strong and brave.” 29 So Absalom’s men did to Amnon what Absalom had ordered. Then all the king’s sons got up, mounted their mules and fled.

30 While they were on their way, the report came to David: “Absalom has struck down all the king’s sons; not one of them is left.” 31 The king stood up, tore his clothes and lay down on the ground; and all his attendants stood by with their clothes torn.

32 But Jonadab son of Shimeah, David’s brother, said, “My lord should not think that they killed all the princes; only Amnon is dead. This has been Absalom’s express intention ever since the day Amnon raped his sister Tamar. 33 My lord the king should not be concerned about the report that all the king’s sons are dead. Only Amnon is dead.” 34 Meanwhile, Absalom had fled.

Now the man standing watch looked up and saw many people on the road west of him, coming down the side of the hill. The watchman went and told the king, “I see men in the direction of Horonaim, on the side of the hill.” 35 Jonadab said to the king, “See, the king’s sons have come; it has happened just as your servant said.” 36 As he finished speaking, the king’s sons came in, wailing loudly. The king, too, and all his attendants wept very bitterly.

37 Absalom fled and went to Talmai son of Ammihud, the king of Geshur. But King David mourned many days for his son. 38 After Absalom fled and went to Geshur, he stayed there three years. 39 And King David longed to go to Absalom, for he was consoled concerning Amnon’s death.”

42

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

43

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

44

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

READ 2 SAMUEL 13:1-22

1. A popular saying in our day is “love is love”. What is meant by this phrase?

2. How would you describe Amnon’s ‘love’ for Tamar (v.1)? Would you respond to this kind of ‘love’ by saying “love is love”? Why or why not?

3. How do we know when ‘love’ turns ugly? What is true love according to the Bible? If you get stuck, consider John 15:13 and Romans 5:7-8.

4. Who do you allow to speak into your life? Are there any authors or speakers that you particularly listen to or admire? Why? Should you be listening to them? What is it about them that makes you heed their advice? How does Amnon’s interaction with Jonadab reveal the importance of those we seek advice from (v.3-5)?

5. Why did Amnon listen to Jonadab? Consider Isaiah 30:9-10, 1 Timothy 1:3-7, 2 Timothy 4:3-4.

6. How did David respond to this incident? Did David lead well? Did he lead at all? Consider Deuteronomy 17:18–20; 22:28-29; 27:22.

7. Are there hang-ups and patterns in your life that make you feel disqualified to live for God? How does Jesus free us to get moving? Consider Romans 3:22-26 and Psalm 32:1-5.

READ 2 SAMUEL 13:23-38

8. Do you think David’s inaction contributed to Absalom’s actions? Do you think David’s previous actions contributed to Absalom’s actions? Consider 2 Samuel 12:9-10.

9. Does David do enough to look into Amnon’s suspicious request (v.26-27)?

45

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

Read Psalm 32 (especially verses 3-7) and allow it to guide your prayers.

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

When we look at the moral compromises we have made and the difficulty in our world we can be tempted to resignation and passivity. How can you reject passivity in your life? Is there one step of active good that you can take towards others this week? Discuss and support each other in this as a group.

10. How do you feel about Absalom’s plan? Are you glad about the actions he takes? Should we be glad? Consider Romans 3:10-18.

11. Jonadab gave Amnon counsel in verse 5. Do you think he ever cared about Amnon (v.32-33)? What does Jonadab care about? Consider verse 35.

READ 2 SAMUEL 14:1-33

12. How many years have passed since Absalom fled (13:28)? Does it seem like David did anything about the situation during this period? Did the situation call for a response?

13. How do you deal with difficulty and conflict? Do you delay and ignore?

14. How should we respond to difficulty and conflict? Read Deuteronomy 17:18–19 and consider how David could have sought wisdom in your answer.

15. How did Joab attempt to help David? Did it turn out well? Consider 2 Samuel 15:13-14.

16. Where do you draw wisdom from when giving advice to others?

17. What kind of person is Absalom? Consider verses 21 and 26.

18. Why do you think the narrator includes the details in verses 25-56? Consider 1 Samuel 9:2.

19. How does Absalom deal with things when he doesn’t get his way? Consider verses 30, 32-33.

46

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 15:1-37

Tuesday 2 Samuel 16:1-14 – 17:23

Wednesday 2 Samuel 17:24 – 18:18

Thursday 2 Samuel 18:19 – 19:8

Friday 2 Samuel 19:9-43

Saturday 2 Samuel 20:1-26

Summary

These chapters describe several power struggles. The division, betrayal and power-grabbing are all part of the compounding effects of sin. However, there are also glimmers of hope as David and others humble themselves before the Lord and experience measures of victory. Ultimately, the course of history belongs to the Lord, and one cannot help but look to him for a day when a peaceful, undivided kingdom will be established.

47

Bible Reading

2 Samuel 15:1-12 (NIV)

“1 In the course of time, Absalom provided himself with a chariot and horses and with fifty men to run ahead of him. 2 He would get up early and stand by the side of the road leading to the city gate. Whenever anyone came with a complaint to be placed before the king for a decision, Absalom would call out to him, “What town are you from?” He would answer, “Your servant is from one of the tribes of Israel.” 3 Then Absalom would say to him, “Look, your claims are valid and proper, but there is no representative of the king to hear you.” 4 And Absalom would add, “If only I were appointed judge in the land! Then everyone who has a complaint or case could come to me and I would see that they receive justice.” 5 Also, whenever anyone approached him to bow down before him, Absalom would reach out his hand, take hold of him and kiss him. 6 Absalom behaved in this way toward all the Israelites who came to the king asking for justice, and so he stole the hearts of the people of Israel.

7 At the end of four years, Absalom said to the king, “Let me go to Hebron and fulfill a vow I made to the LORD. 8 While your servant was living at Geshur in Aram, I made this vow: ‘If the LORD takes me back to Jerusalem, I will worship the LORD in Hebron.’” 9 The king said to him, “Go in peace.” So he went to Hebron.

10 Then Absalom sent secret messengers throughout the tribes of Israel to say, “As soon as you hear the sound of the trumpets, then say, ‘Absalom is king in Hebron.’” 11 Two hundred men from Jerusalem had accompanied Absalom. They had been invited as guests and went quite innocently, knowing nothing about the matter. 12 While Absalom was offering sacrifices, he also sent for Ahithophel the Gilonite, David’s counselor, to come from Giloh, his hometown. And so the conspiracy gained strength, and Absalom’s following kept on increasing.”

48

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

49

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

50

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

READ 2 SAMUEL 15:1-12

1. What is Absalom’s goal in all of his initial actions (v.1-5)?

2. Absalom seems persistent and tireless, ‘He would get up early’ (v.2) and kept all of this up for ‘four years’ (v.7). Where is King David in all of this? Do you think word may have reached him concerning Absalom’s actions or that he was completely unaware? Consider 2 Samuel 14:19-20 and 18:13.

READ 2 SAMUEL 15:13-37

3. Why did David suddenly spring into action?

4. Do you ever feel like things need to go from bad to worse before you will deal with an issue? Give some reasons as to why we do this. What helps you to overcome avoidance behaviours? How does God help us?

5. How did David treat Ittai the Philistine (v.19-20)? Is there anything we can learn from David’s actions?

READ 2 SAMUEL 16:1-14

6. David asks Ziba why he was being so generous (v.2). How does Ziba answer the question? Does his answer actually address David’s question?

7. Do you think Ziba’s answer about Mephibosheth’s whereabouts is likely (v.3)? Do you think Absalom would have gladly handed the kingdom over to him?

The irony of ‘Absalom’: The name ‘Absalom’ means ‘Father of Peace’. Absalom lies to David about his intentions in going to Hebron. Ironically, David’s response, ‘Go in peace’ (v. 9), could not be further from reality. Absalom did not intend for peace, but war.

Ittai the Gittite: Interestingly, Ittai was a Philistine warrior from Gath. By all accounts David and Ittai should have been enemies. Instead, Ittai is one of the few shining lights in the story, declaring his loyalty both to David as the rightful king and his faith in the God of Israel. It is interesting how foreigners and outsiders to Israel would play admirable roles in God’s story at different times (e.g., Rahab in Joshua 2 and Hebrews 11:31).

Ziba and Mephibosheth: Mephibosheth is the grandson of the ousted King Saul and Ziba is Mephibosheth’s servant. Mephibosheth is lame in both feet and would have needed physical aid to leave Jerusalem.

51

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

Read Psalm 3 and allow it to guide your prayers.

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

8. Read 2 Samuel 19:24-30 to get Mephibosheth’s side of the story. In hindsight, David was quite hasty in handing over Mephibosheth’s possessions to Ziba. Is there anything he could have done differently?

9. Is Shimei correct in his accusations (v. 8)? Was David responsible for Saul’s demise? Consider 2 Samuel 1:5-16; 4:8-12.

10. Although Shimei is wrong to blame David for Saul’s demise, his last statement holds some truth (“You have come to ruin because you are a murderer!”). We can usually imagine consequences for sins like murder, but are there any sins that you tend to think of as harmless? Be honest. Consider 2 Samuel 12:9–10 and Galatians 6:7.

11. How did David respond to Shimei’s accusations? What motivated David’s response? Consider verse 12.

12. How did David repay Shimei when the tides were turned (2 Samuel 19:16-23)? How does this remind you of Jesus? How does Jesus surpass David? Consider Romans 5:10.

13. How does Jesus’ death on your behalf make you feel? Does it change the way you want to respond to those who mistreat you?

Is there someone in your life who targets you and opposes you? Take some time as a group to brainstorm how you can bless specific people in your life who oppose you. Encourage each other and consider committing to praying for a member of the group this week as they endeavour to do this.

‘King David approached Bahurim’: “David and his companions… are now in Benjamite territory, Saul’s tribal home. One of Saul’s relatives, Shimei, approaches the entourage and begins to curse David because of what he had done to the house of Saul.” – NIV Study Bible

52

Bible Reading

2 Samuel 22:1-20 (NIV) “1 David sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. 2 He said: “The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; 3 my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation.

Bible Readings

Monday 2 Samuel 21:1-22

Tuesday 2 Samuel 22:1-51

Wednesday 2 Samuel 23:1-7

Thursday 2 Samuel 23:8-39

Friday 2 Samuel 24:1-17

Saturday 2 Samuel 24:18-25

Summary

The book of 2 Samuel ends in a mixed way. Former sins come back to haunt Israel in the form of the Gibeonites, David and his men achieve great victories against the Philistines, and David’s victorious song is recounted. The book ends with another mixed story about David. He counts his armies in an act of pride before humbling himself once more before the Lord. Even Israel’s best king was horribly flawed. The people need a greater king.

53

He is my stronghold, my refuge and my saviour— from violent people you save me. 4 “I called to the LORD, who is worthy of praise, and have been saved from my enemies. 5 The waves of death swirled about me; the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me. 6 The cords of the grave coiled around me; the snares of death confronted me. 7 “In my distress I called to the LORD; I called out to my God. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came to his ears. 8 The earth trembled and quaked, the foundations of the heavens shook; they trembled because he was angry. 9 Smoke rose from his nostrils; consuming fire came from his mouth, burning coals blazed out of it. 10 He parted the heavens and came down; dark clouds were under his feet. 11 He mounted the cherubim and flew; he soared on the wings of the wind. 12 He made darkness his canopy around him— the dark rain clouds of the sky. 13 Out of the brightness of his presence bolts of lightning blazed forth. 14 The LORD thundered from heaven; the voice of the Most High resounded. 15 He shot his arrows and scattered the enemy, with great bolts of lightning he routed them. 16 The valleys of the sea were exposed and the foundations of the earth laid bare at the rebuke of the LORD, at the blast of breath from his nostrils. 17 “He reached down from on high and took hold of me; he drew me out of deep waters. 18 He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. 19 They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the LORD was my support. 20 He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.”

54

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Sermon Notes

55

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

56

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:1-51

1. Go all the way back to Hannah’s song in 1 Samuel 2:1-10. Take some time to read through it. Do you notice any similar themes between Hannah and David’s songs? Discuss.

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:2-3

2. Do you see God in this way? Is he your safe place and your protector?

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:4-6

3. Have you ever felt like ‘waves of death swirled’ around you? If you are comfortable, share.

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:7

4. Can you recount a time where God delivered you from a great difficulty? Share if you are comfortable.

5. “God is particularly close to those who are broken and needy.” Do you agree with this phrase? Consider also 1 Samuel 2:8.

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:8-16

6. David paints quite a fearsome picture of God here. How do you feel about it? What kinds of people might read this and be terrified? What kinds of people might read this and be comforted? Why is David comforted by it?

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:8-16

7. Has someone ever stood up for you when you were being picked on? Has someone ever rescued you out of a horrible situation? How did it make you feel?

For reflection: “Oppressed peoples around the world have been empowered by the scriptural picture of a God who is angered by injustice and unrighteousness. In our own day, in our haste to flee from the wrath of God, we might ask whether we have thought through the consequences of belief in a god who is not set against evil in all its forms. Miroslav Volf writes, “A non-indignant God would be an accomplice in injustice, deception, and violence.” Perhaps the reason we have trouble with this is that we are ourselves accomplices.” – Fleming Rutledge

Growth Group Questions

Check in with each other. Share what has been new, challenging, or encouraging in your life.

Pursue God Growing in knowledge of God and Christ-likeness

Share Life Building healthy and life-giving relationships

57

Pray Always Devoting ourselves to prayer

Read Hannah’s prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10 and allow it to guide your prayers as a group.

Serve Others Valuing people outside the group and outside the faith

8. Are there any ‘foes’ in your life that are too strong for you? How has Jesus defeated them? How has God rescued you from them ultimately? Consider Ephesians 2:1-3; Colossians 2:15; Romans 6:6-7, 10-14.

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:21–25

10. How do you explain these verses? Do you think that David literally believes he has never turned away from God? Consider also Psalm 51.

11. How does Jesus fulfil these verses? Consider John 8:29 and 1 Peter 2:22.

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:26–30

12. David has experienced both sides of the truth in verse 28. Can you recall any experiences from David’s life that illustrate these two truths? If you get stuck, look at 2 Samuel 16:11-14 and 18:7 for an example of the humble being saved; look at 2 Samuel 24:10–16 for an example of the proud being brought low.

13. How does the truth of verse 28 show up in the New Testament? Consider Matthew 5:3–10. Do you think our world operates according to verse 28 and Matthew 5:3-10? Or does it operate according to a different principle? Consider 1 Corinthians 1:18–21.

14. Have you bought into the world’s ways at all? Explain to the group if you’re comfortable.

READ 2 SAMUEL 22:31–37

15. Who has given David his success? Where do you look for your success in day-to-day life? Can you point to a specific experience where God granted you victory? Encourage the group by sharing your story.

How can the group express their solidarity with those who are ‘lowly and despised’ (according to the world’s standards) in order to value what God values? Perhaps the group could together consider sponsoring a child living in poverty through Compassion or through the New Life Orphanage, or you could spend some time reading about persecuted Christians at www.opendoors.org.au and pray for them.

Further context: We must remember that David isn’t just anybody in Israel. He is the King, God’s anointed one, the Messiah. In these verses David is speaking in his capacity as God’s King and points us forward to a greater king who would never turn away from God. Jesus came as the long-awaited king from David’s line, the promised Messiah, and he alone could truly say “I have been blameless before him and have kept myself from sin.”

58

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Personal Reflections

59

60

Growth Group Guide